But both teams viewed the competition as a character-builder moving forward.

The Tigers put its first run up on a throwing error in the first. In the bottom of the third, Joe Gray gave Hattiesburg an extra bump with a two-run home run to left-center.

Pitcher A.J Stinson went four innings for the Tigers, giving up zero runs on three hits and five strikeouts.

In relief, pitcher Jay Reedy was given the task of sealing the deal. However, Reedy struggled with location in the sixth inning and ultimately walked the bases loaded. Oak Grove got two runs back on two separate fielder’s choice plays, but that was all the Warriors could manage in the frame.

Reedy was left in to close the game out in the seventh and delivered. He got through the side with ease, giving up only a two-out single to the Warriors. Going from a sixth inning struggle to closing out a victory over a rival opponent gave Hattiesburg coach Joe Hartfield something to think about in terms of maturity.

“It says an awful lot for [Reedy] character,” said Hartfield. “He’s a great kid. Does good both on the field and in the classroom. It speaks highly of him. Our guys stepped up tonight. I wasn’t happy with the way we’ve been playing to be honest with you up until now. The guys really stepped up today.”

For the Warriors, coach Chris McCardle had a similar outlook after the loss. After falling to 6-3 on the season, he knows his team has to find value gaining experience. With a young roster, most of which will be returning next year, it’s a process for the Warriors.

“We’ve played three really good teams this year so far,” said McCardle. “We’ve actually been in the lead two out of three of those games. We haven’t found a way to close it out like we have in the past, but that’s just because of maturity and experience. Our kid are fighters; they’ll bounce back.”

Hattiesburg improved to 8-2 and will go on the road to face Pearl River Central on Tuesday.. Oak Grove will return to action the same day, going on the road to face Wayne County.